Fuel costs a ‘postcode lottery’ as UK prices vary by up to 10p per litre

Whilst fuel prices have continued to drop, the financial expert Moneyzine has highlighted the disparity in prices around the UK.

According to figures published by the AA, in June 2023 the average cost for a litre of petrol was 143.6p, whilst a litre of diesel was 145.3p per litre.

However, the findings have highlighted the difference in prices between different regions of the country, leading some to argue there is a postcode lottery for fuel.

During the month, the cheapest place to fill up your car was Northern Ireland, where a litre of petrol was 139.8p and diesel was even cheaper at 137.8p per litre.

Meanwhile, motorists in the South East were paying over 6p more per litre of petrol and nearly 10p extra for their diesel.

Moneyzine also highlighted that some parts of the country have also seen prices drop at a slower rate, with Northern Ireland’s prices dropping by 13.7 percent whilst London motorists only saved 11.06 percent between Autumn 2022 and Spring 2023.

Jonathan Merry, personal finance expert for Moneyzine, commented on the disparity in fuel prices.

He explained: “Local prices are varying a lot at the moment, factors like competition, refinery proximity, and transportation costs can influence fuel prices significantly.”

However, Jonathan explained how drivers can save money on their fuel bills, no matter where they live.

He said: “Opting for weekdays or non-peak hours to fill up can often secure more favourable prices.

“Consider joining fuel station loyalty programs, these often provide discounted rates and special promotions for cardholders.”

2022 saw many countries, including the UK, see massive increases in the cost of fuel, which began with the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Some parts of the country recorded the most expensive fuel prices to date, with petrol costing 191.5p per litre, and a litre of diesel being 199.09p.

Whilst prices continue to fall, the data published by Moneyzine has revealed that no area of the UK has completely recovered from the increases of 2022.